Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Business Connection January 2025

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Business Connection

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Welcoming our 2025 Board President Sean Kiffe & New Board Members

Sean Kiffe is the incoming KLCC Board President for 2025, having initially joined the board in 2022. He grew up in Puyallup, Washington, then pursued higher education earning a science degree from George Fox University and a chemical engineering degree from Oregon State University.

Sean began his career with Weyerhaeuser and then transferred to NORPAC when he and his family moved to the Kelso Longview area 28 years ago. He is currently NORPAC’s Operations Manager and helped the mill transform from a newsprint manufacturer to a producer of book paper, copy paper, and packaging papers.

Sean feels strongly about supporting the local community. He served on several small boards including those for soccer, church, and a private foundation. He also coached youth sports for 16 years and has spent the last 9 years as a soccer referee. Sean is an active member of NORPAC’s Community Involvement Team which supports many local organizations through volunteerism, financial contributions, copy paper donations to area schools, and various clothing and toy drives.

Sean has four grown children who attended Kelso schools, with one still residing in Longview and the others spread across the country. He enjoys staying active through sports, especially soccer, participating in church activities, hiking around the PNW, and spending time at his family cabin in Central Oregon.

The Chamber is also excited to welcome new Board Members, Elisha Jolma from Sho'me Real Estate, Keith Johnanson from Smurft/Westrock, Seth McNelly from the Children's Discovery Museum and Nicole Tideman legal counsel from Walstead Mertching. The Chamber is lucky to have such a strong, supportive and engaged board. We are thrilled for what 2025 has in store for the Chamber, and with Sean's leadership, we are confident that exciting opportunities lie ahead for both the Chamber and the community.

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Bonnie Delaney CEO

New Years – My favorite Holiday!

The arrival of the new year is more than just the turning of a calendar page—it's a celebration of fresh opportunities, renewed hope, and the endless potential for personal growth. It's a time when the world collectively pauses to reflect on the past and envisions a brighter future.

The beauty of the new year lies in its promise of a clean slate. It’s a chance to learn from our experiences, set new goals, and strive to be better versions of ourselves. Whether it’s cultivating healthier habits, better work life balance, reconnecting with loved ones, finishing a long ago started project, or finally pursuing a dream, the beginning of the year is a time of new aspirations with optimism and determination.

So, as the clock strikes midnight and we step into the possibilities of a new year, let’s celebrate the gift of trying again, doing better, being better and having a positive effect on the outcome. Here’s to embracing the clean slate, cherishing the journey, and making this year the best one yet!

Board of Directors

Sean Kiffe

President

NORPAC

Pam Whittle

President Elect

Realty One Group Pacifica

Jason Meunier

Treasurer

Fibre Federal Credit Union

Nicole Tideman Legal Counsel

Walstead Mertsching

Rich Coleman Bicoastal Media

Diane Craft Koelsch Communities

Duane Dalgleish Cowlitz PUD

Michelle Domenico St. John/PeaceHealth

Bill Fogarty Twin City

Kristin Gaines Alcoa

Kelly Godden Specialty Rents

Keenan Harvey City Council, Kelso

John Paul KUKN-KLOG-101.5 The Blitz

Ted Sprague Cowlitz Economic Development Council

MaryAlice Wallis City of Longview

Seth McNelly Children's Discovery Museum

Elish Jolma

Sho'me Real Estate

Keith Johason Smurfit / Westrock

On Tuesday, December 10th, the Chamber hosted its highly anticipated Annual Holiday Mixer, bringing together members of the business community for an evening of festive cheer, networking, and celebration. Held at The Roxy Theatre, the event was nothing short of spectacular, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that captured the holiday spirit.

Attendees were greeted with twinkling lights, holiday music, and an impressive spread of hors d'oeuvres and drinks. From sparkling cocktails to decadent desserts, the menu was a hit, fueling lively conversations and laughter throughout the evening.

One of the highlights of the night was the holiday raffle, featuring an array of prizes generously donated by local businesses. Lucky winners walked away with gift baskets to wraths.

The Chamber’s Annual Holiday Mixer is more than just a party—it’s a cherished tradition that strengthens bonds within the community. This year’s event was a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together professionals from various industries in a spirit of camaraderie and joy.

As the evening wound down, attendees left with smiles on their faces, festive memories, and new connections to carry into the new year. The Chamber thanks everyone who participated and made the event a success. Here’s to another year of growth, partnership, and holiday magic!

Mark your calendars for next year’s mixer—it’s an event you won’t want to miss!

January 24 & 25

The Sasqualogist

2025 sQuatch Speakers

6:00

2:00

2:30

4:45

2:30

EVENT SCHEDULE

EVENT SCHEDULE

EVENT SCHEDULE

Sorted

AM Event Opens - Vendors Open in St Helens & Breakout Rooms

AM Kathy Strain

Followed by Q&A w/ Joseph Granda- Movie Loowit

w/ Dinner & Drinks Optional Followed by Q&A w/ Joseph Granda- Movie Loowit

6:45 PM 3rd Movie Showing w/ Dinner & Drinks Option Followed by Q&A w/ Joseph Granda- Movie Loowit

11:30 AM Matt Pruitt Loowit 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM Lunch Break Loowit 1:30 PM Tyler Bounds Loowit 3:00 PM Amy Bue Loowit

4:45 PM 2nd Movie Showing w/ Dinner & Drinks Option Followed by Q&A w/ Joseph Granda- Movie Loowit

2:30 PM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral

3:30 PM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral

2:30

6:45 PM 3rd Movie Showing w/ Dinner & Drinks Option Followed by Q&A w/ Joseph Granda- Movie Loowit

5:00 PM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral

2:30 PM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral

4:30 PM Ken Gerhard 05:30 PM – 6:00 PM Dinner Break 6:30 PM Cliff Barackman Loowit

5:00

6:00 PM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral

3:30 PM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral

7:00 PM Townhall Story Sharing - Craig Yahne Floral

6:00

5:00

8:15 PM sQuatch Calling Competition - Craig Yahne Floral Event Over

7:00

6:00

8:15

7:00 PM Townhall Story Sharing - Craig Yahne Floral

9:00

8:15 PM sQuatch Calling Competition - Craig Yahne Floral

9:00

9:30 AM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral 10:30 AM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral 12:00 PM Townhall Story Sharing - Craig Yahne Floral 1:15 PM sQuatch Calling Competition - Craig Yahne Floral 3:00 PM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project

4:00 PM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project

5:00 PM Townhall Story Sharing - Craig Yahne Floral

6:15 PM sQuatch Calling Competition - Led by Craig Yahne Floral Event Over

Kelso

Managing Financial Records Amid Year-End Chaos: Tips for Streamlined Bookkeeping

As the year draws to a close, accounting and bookkeeping departments everywhere are experiencing the typical chaos that comes with year-end reporting. With deadlines looming and financial records piling up, maintaining an efficient file system has never been more crucial. A well-organized system not only simplifies the end-of-year process but also helps avoid mistakes, reduce stress, and ensure accurate reporting. Here’s a look at how businesses can effectively manage their financial records to stay ahead during this hectic time:

1. Assess Your Business Structure and Needs

The first step in creating an effective file system is understanding your business model and transaction volume. Whether your business deals with clients, members, vendors, employees, or contractors will influence how you organize your files. For example, businesses with employees may need to maintain separate folders for payroll, taxes, and employee benefits, while those working with contractors will focus on vendor or project-based records. The volume of your transactions also plays a role—larger businesses with numerous transactions may require a more intricate system, while smaller businesses can likely keep things simpler.

2. Categorize Files Properly

Properly categorizing your financial records is essential for avoiding confusion and ensuring that you can quickly retrieve necessary documents. Keeping payables (bills, invoices, payments) separate from non-payables (contracts, legal notices, etc.) will help maintain clarity. Organizing by vendor or client is also crucial, especially for businesses that deal with multiple parties. Additionally, separating tax-related documents (W-2s, 1099s, quarterly filings) and legal documents (contracts, licenses, permits) will make it easier to access what you need when preparing for tax season or audits.

3. Choose the Right Filing System

The structure of your filing system should work for your specific needs. There are a few common approaches:

• Alphabetical: Organizing files by vendor or client name is simple and effective for many businesses.

• By Date or Month: If your records are time-sensitive, consider organizing files by month or quarter. This is especially useful for tracking seasonal transactions or facilitating smoother year-end reporting.

• Project-Based: For businesses handling numerous projects or jobs, organizing files by project or job number can streamline the process.

• Digital or Physical: Whether your records are stored physically or digitally, clarity and consistency in labeling are key. For digital files, cloud storage and structured folders can improve access and help ensure everything is backed up properly.

4. Keep It Simple and Consistent

The success of your filing system depends on its simplicity and consistency. Ensure that the structure makes sense for you and your team, and that anyone involved in maintaining the files can easily understand and navigate the system. Establishing regular filing habits is crucial—don't let records pile up, as doing so can cause unnecessary delays and confusion down the road.

5. Review and Adjust Regularly

A monthly review of your file system will keep things in order and ensure everything is on track as you approach year-end. Regular maintenance helps avoid a last-minute scramble when closing out the year and gives you time to adjust your system if necessary. These routine checks help ensure that everything is accurately documented and ready for tax filings, audits, or other financial reviews.

As businesses navigate the inevitable end-of-year rush, setting up a well-organized, efficient, and intuitive file system for your financial records can make all the difference. This will set you up for smoother bookkeeping and reporting, making the chaotic end-of-year period much more manageable and allowing you to close out the year with confidence. After all, a system that suits your specific business needs and allows for easy retrieval of documents is the backbone of strong financial management, and stress-free accounting.

Kelso Business and Community Association

A Year in Review: Celebrating KBCA’s Successes and Looking Ahead

As we enter a new year, the Kelso Business and Community Association (KBCA) reflects on our most successful year yet filled with growth, community connection, and fun. Our recent 2nd Annual Holiday Caravan to Lights in the Park event was a festive highlight, bringing joy and holiday cheer to Kelso residents and beyond. We partnered with community champions John and Nikki Paul with KUKN, KLOG, and the BLITZ and Jon and Christine Randall with TrolleyLocal this year to lead the way to Kelso Rotary’s Lights in the Park at Tam O’ Shanter. Thank you to everyone who participated, decorated their vehicles, and joined us in celebrating the season of giving and togetherness.

Reflecting on Our Accomplishments

This year, the KBCA achieved several significant milestones:

Beautification Projects: We nearly doubled the number of city planters to 60, adding even more color and charm to Kelso. These efforts have transformed our public spaces and continue to enhance our community pride. After the summer flowers began to wane, Joelle planted a variety of bulbs to ensure we have some early color come spring.

Community Clean-Up Events: With the help of volunteers, we held multiple clean-up days, making a noticeable impact on the cleanliness and appearance of our streets and parks.

Youth Engagement: Our unique Kelso Kids Bridge Market provided a platform for over 35 young entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and learn valuable business skills. Look forward to more Kelso Kids Bridge Markets in 2025!

Fundraising Success: The Shamrock Shuffle Adult Easter Egg Hunt in March was not only a great deal of fun but also a major success, raising funds to support all of our projects and initiatives.

Small Business Events: Our first Bites, Brews, and Brothels Progressive Dinner and Walking Tour with Joseph of the Cowlitz County Historical Museum brought new faces to new Kelso Businesses with a twist of Kelso’s more colorful history.

Partnerships and Growth: KBCA’s partnerships continue to grow, thanks to the support of our city, county, businesses, nonprofits, and citizens. These achievements demonstrate the power of collaboration and the incredible dedication of our community.

Thank You to Our Supporters

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported

KBCA throughout the year. Whether you volunteered your time, attended events, or provided sponsorship, your involvement is what makes our work possible. Special thanks go to our key partners, including the City of Kelso, Kelso Rotary, Habitat for Humanity, and the many local businesses and organizations that continue to believe in and invest in our vision.

Looking Ahead: Save the Date!

Mark your calendars! The 2025 Shamrock Shuffle Adult Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 2025. This beloved event promises an evening of fun, laughter, and community connection— all while supporting the KBCA’s ongoing efforts to make Kelso an even better place to live, work, and play. Stay tuned for more details in the coming months.

Join Us in 2025

As we move into a new year, KBCA remains committed to fostering growth, community pride, and opportunity in Kelso. We invite you to join us in our mission. Attend our meetings, volunteer at events, or simply share your ideas for how we can continue to improve our wonderful community. Keep up with the KBCA at www.letsgokelso. com

Here’s to an even brighter 2025! Together, we can make great things happen.

Did you know the Chamber has its own radio program?

Every Wednesday at 6PM or catch a recording of it on Sound Cloud

Hosted by:

Tuesday, January 14 | 5 PM - 7 PM

The Children's Discovery Museum is a child friendly space right here in Cowlitz County where children and their families can engage in imaginative, interactive hands on learning of the arts, science, and social play. Our exhibits include the nature niche (microscopes, bugs, and other cool science stu ), a farm to market equipped with fruits, vegies, a kitchen to "cook" in, and a dining area for serving up whatever their imagination has created! We have giant building logs, a doctor and dental o ce, dress-up, a bowling lane, our famous ping-pong shower, and much more!

The Children's Discovery Museum is a gi to our community and there is no charge to come and enjoy it.

Don’t miss out on the best networking event in Cowlitz county! Meet with fellow chamber and community members

New WorkSource Services Aim to Help Local Businesses

In a world where the market is facing continual economic and technological disruptions, businesses can easily fall behind and become less competitive. With assistance from WorkSource, employers can take steps to future-proof their companies and support their employees’ professional development.

While WorkSource is known for its part in helping job seekers in Cowlitz, Wahkiakum, and Clark counties return to work, it also works with local businesses to support their staffing, promote their open positions, navigate tax credits, and more. In fact, WorkSource has a full Business Services team dedicated to working with local businesses.

One way WorkSource can help eligible businesses is to pay for the onboarding of their new employees or improving the skills of existing workers up to an amount of $5,000. This initiative serves to aid businesses in Cowlitz, Wahkiakum, and Clark counties through training reimbursements to promote the growth of both local businesses and job seekers.

"WorkSource has reimbursed over $58,000 thus far toward employee training to local businesses," said Business Navigator Margarita Marochkina.

One of these companies, Dreamline, is a Vancouver-based custom cabinet maker that has hired four individuals thus far through WorkSource. Each of these job seekers were eligible for WorkSource’s On-the-Job Training (OJT) program, where WorkSource can pay a portion of their wages, allowing Dreamline to access new talent without the financial burden of training.

“I am incredibly grateful to this organization for helping me secure a position as a designer,” said Mariia Malakhova, one of Dreamline’s new hires. “The fact that they matched me with a company where people communicate in both Russian and English made my integration into American society much smoother and less stressful. Thanks to their support, I can fully showcase my skills and grow professionally in the field I love.”

A mechanical engineer in his home country, Andrii Polishchuk was a recent Ukrainian immigrant who was also eligible for WorkSource’s OJT program. Like Malakhova, WorkSource paid a portion of his wages while he trained in his new position. In addition though, Polishchuk was also eligible for support services.

Finding a job is only one part of WorkSource’s services, the other part is helping our customers keep their new job. Many job seekers face barriers to returning to work and by providing support services, WorkSource can help mitigate these barriers and aid in increasing employee retention. In Polishchuk’s case, WorkSource was able to supply him with work clothes and tools so that he could start his new job.

Since March of 2024, Margarita Marochkina has worked tirelessly with Dreamline to meet their staffing and retention needs.

“At Dreamline, Inc., we are proud of our collaborative partnership with WorkSource, which has been instrumental in our commitment to workforce development,” said Angela Garzaro, Dreamline’s Office Manager. “Through this valuable relationship, we have been able to create meaningful employment opportunities for individuals entering the job market, providing critical on-the-job training and financial support. WorkSource has enabled us to nurture talent, transform potential into performance, and build a dynamic, skilled workforce that drives our company's success. By investing in people and providing comprehensive training, we're not just filling positions—we're building careers and supporting our community's economic growth.”

Business services are free of charge and language assistance is available upon request. Learn more by contacting Business Navigator Margarita Marochkina at margarita.marochkina@esd. wa.gov or by calling 360.433.1279.

WorkSource is a partnership of local, state and nonprofit organizations that provides an array of employment and training services to job seekers and businesses in Washington State. WorkSource is funded through the local workforce development board, Workforce Southwest Washington. For information, go to www.WorkSourceWA.com.

This program receives support and funding from a U.S. Department of Labor grant(s) provided through Workforce Southwest Washington. Read more about WSW federal funding at WSW Funding Disclosures: https://workforcesw.org/federal-fundingdisclosure.

WorkSource is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Washington Relay Service: 711

Legislative Luncheon

19th & 20th District Delegation District Senators and State Representatives

The Chamber recently held its Government Luncheon, on Monday December 16th at Mill City Grill. It’s an engaging event that brought together key state representatives from the 19th and 20th districts to discuss pressing issues affecting our local communities. The luncheon was skillfully moderated by Steve Taylor, Director of Regulatory and Regional Affairs for the Cowlitz PUD.

Attendees had the unique opportunity to hear from a distinguished panel of lawmakers, including:

• 19th District State Representative - Jim Walsh

• 19th District Senator - Jeff Wilson

• 19th District State Representative - Joel McEntire

• 20th District State Representative - Ed Orcutt

• 20th District State Representative - Peter Abbarno

• 20th District Senator - John Braun

The discussion kicked off with Steve Taylor posing insightful questions to the representatives, setting the stage for a dynamic exchange on critical topics such as the state budget, clean fuel initiatives, and their implications for local government and residents of the 19th and 20th districts.

Following the moderated session, audience members had the chance to submit their own questions.This interactive format

allowed attendees to address their most pressing concerns directly with their elected officials, fostering a greater understanding of legislative priorities and challenges.

The Chamber extends its gratitude to Steve Taylor for his excellent moderation and to the state representatives for their participation and transparency. Events like this reinforce the importance of open dialogue between lawmakers and the communities they serve.

Thank you to all who attended and contributed to the success of this event. We look forward to continuing these important conversations with the start of our Monday Morning Legislative updates starting on Monday January 6, 2025. Keep an eye out for the Zoom Meeting information. The legislative updates are open to everyone at no charge.

(R - 20th LD)
Rep. Peter Abbarno (R - 20th LD)
(R - 19th LD)
Rep. Joel McEntire (R - 19th LD) (R - 19th LD)

Private Schools and Thriving Communities

Private schools are often thought of as “other”: a refuge for the affluent, or self-focused pocket communities. It might be time to take a fresh look at how private schools contribute to our communities. In Washington State, private schools are educating more than 82,000 students, saving the state close to a billion dollars of instructional costs that are covered by individual parents (WFIS, 2024).

Research shows that private schools are key contributors to civic health. In fact, private religious schools are strongly correlated with positive civic outcomes associated with political tolerance, knowledge and skills (Shakeel, et al, 2024). Many private schools have a distinct focus on service and preparing students as global citizens. At Three Rivers Christian School, more than two-thirds of our middle/high school students participate in “Impact Trips,” specially designed service learning excursions that have brought our students to work with and learn from faith communities in San Francisco, Washington D.C., Northern Ireland, Ukraine, South Korea, Ecuador, and beyond!

While healthy public schools are incredibly important for our country’s social health, private schools have an opportunity to be “demonstration gardens” of effective educational practice. With less bureaucracy and the ability to accept students based on their individual missions, private schools can dig deep into projectbased and experiential learning. At Three Rivers Christian School, we’ve spent the past six years redesigning our curriculum with a “backwards design” and project-driven focus. Our teaching staff have been teaching at conferences around the United States on how to better align instruction with educational goals, ensuring that we are preparing students for a world that doesn’t exist yet.

families have access to a quality Christian education.

References

Shakeel, M.D., Wolf, P.J., Johnson, A.H. et al. The Public Purposes of Private Education: a Civic Outcomes Meta-Analysis. Educ Psychol Rev 36, 40 (2024).

Tuition costs often remain a barrier for families. Many private schools in Washington state work incredibly hard to source donations and financial aid support for families. Many private schools focus on serving in low-income, diverse communities with a missional goal. Highly qualified teachers often choose to work in these communities for lower salaries, seeking the opportunity to teach differently or reduce the load of behavioral management. At Three Rivers Christian School, more than half of our families are receiving financial aid of some kind, and our goal is to make Christian education accessible for all desiring families.

Next year, our school will celebrate 60 years of “preparing students, from infants through 12th grade, to impact the world for Christ.” Tens of thousands of students have spent time at Three Rivers Christian (formerly known as Longview Christian) – and we hope to continue our legacy of impact for generations to come! We are so grateful to our supportive community for ensuring our local

A big THANK YOU to all the new and loyal members who have started or continued their partnership with us this month:

• The Lovely Lia Esthetics

• AI Accounting Data Analytics AI SolutionsDivisional SW Washington Office

• Americana Health & Rehabilitation Center

• Big Smoke in Little Kalama

• Up to Par Cleaning LLC

• J.S. Chappell, LLC

• Pape' Material Handling

• Employer's Overload

• Sides Bookkeeping Services

• Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington

• Apogee Longview

• The Main Event Party Store

• Reliques Longview

• BBSI

• Hop N Grape Longview LLC

• Tierra Interpreting

• Cacao Kingdom, LLC

• Urban Bungee

• Roofing Systems Northwest

• Arbor Vancouver - Equus Workforce

• Red Canoe Credit Union - Kelso

• Teevin Bros. Land & Timber

• Trammell Crow Company

• Elite Electrical Contracting

• Rollins Utility Locating LLC

NEW MEMBERS

Add your business to our growing membership Call 360-423-8400 Today!

Membership packages to fit your needs

Business Association with opportunities to promote trade through Chamber socials, special events and committee participation.

• Annual Meeting and Banquet

• Networking Events

• Committee Participation

• Business Contacts

• Quarterly Membership Meetings

• Civic Representation

• Monthly Business After Hours

Business Services include marketing for your business, referrals and access to Chamber publications and research data.

• Mailing Labels

• Membership Window Decals

• Member Referrals

• Ribbon Cutting

• Website Links

• Member to Member Discounts

• Membership Directory

• Tax Deduction

• Newsletter

• Business Card Display

• Use of Chamber Logo

Representation through action committees, candidate forums and up-to-date action alerts.

• Legislative Representation

• Issues Tracking and Information

• Task Forces

• Candidate Forums

• Legislative Update Breakfast

• Demographics Publication

Membership Packages

• Diamond

• Platinum

• Gold

• Silver

• Bronze

• Standard

• Nonprofit

Jingle 5K Run Lights Up Kelso with Rotary Lights in the Park Partnership

The holiday spirit was in full stride this year with the inaugural Jingle 5K Run in partnership with the Kelso Rotary Lights in the Park. This collaboration brought the community together under the Kelso Rotary Lights in the Park.

Participants donned their holiday-themed running gear and jogged, walked, or dashed their way through the light display at Tam-O-Shanter Park. The event marked the first time the Jingle 5K Run was combined with the Rotary’s Lights in the Park.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, Santa and Mrs. Claus made a special appearance, spreading joy and taking photos of participants, young and old. Local favorite Burgerville kept spirits high, and appetites satisfied by serving up delicious sundaes. The Kelso Choir was also present and kept our runners and participants entertained with their holiday songs.

With lots of smiles and fun, the inaugural Jingle 5K Run and Kelso Rotary Lights partnership proved that holiday magic shines even brighter when the community comes together. Here’s to making it an annual tradition!

Longview Public Schools

LCC Nursing Instructors: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

As Thirty years ago, both Jeanne and Tamara enrolled at LCC looking for a profession in nursing. Both are first-generation college graduates, attended the LCC Nursing program, earned their Masters Degrees from WSU-V, worked for Hospice doing home visits, for PeaceHealth in specialty units and they have dedicated there “spare time” giving back to communities in need. Eventually Tamara and Jeanne became Tenured Nursing Faculty at LCC and have remained in multiple roles to this day, this year both earning their 25 years pins from LCC.

From Jeanne: To be honest I never wanted to be a nurse. I was very happy being an at home mom, working part time jobs driving school bus at Toutle Lake and being a CNA at the Child and Adolescence Clinic. Then one day life changed, my husband’s mill was closing so we decided that I would start college and work toward a nursing degree, at the age of 32. As I started the nursing program, I knew

then that I wanted to be a nurse educator. Teaching nursing students has been one of the most rewarding things that I have ever done and now I’m passing on my knowledge in nursing education and advance simulation to my nursing faculty(friends), many whom I have taught. It would be a lie if I said I will not miss it, I will, but as I move away from nursing education, I plan to travel, enjoy all my grandchildren, garden and continue to volunteer.

From Tamara: After graduating from LCC Nursing program and gaining experience as a nurse, I was drawn back to LCC to become Nursing Faculty. During my time at the college, I have seen so many changes to the nursing program; Double enrollments, classes going on-line, students entering our program from all over the country, state of the art simulation lab and constant changes in healthcare and nursing. This has made for a tremendously rewarding and challenging career. As I move out of nursing education my plans include continuing to work for the American Red Cross disaster response team as well as Global Health Outreach international.

We both came to nursing through the loss of someone we loved. We move to the next adventures knowing we will miss the friendships forged through the years. Happy in the knowledge that we were where we were suppose to be, in the profession that embraced us, nursing.

Legislative Updates

19th & 20th District Delegation

It’s that time of the year again, the Chamber’s weekly legislative updates are scheduled to start again on Monday January 13th at 7am, via a TEAMS call. We will receive updates not only from our district 19th and 20th representatives but also from Dave Mastin from the Association of Washington Businesses, on State issues that could impact you. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

SPENCER CREEK STATION

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